Meaning
怪异 describes something that is strange, unusual, or deviates from normal expectations in a way that feels uncanny or unsettling. It combines 怪 (strange) with 异 (different/unusual) to emphasize abnormality. This word often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting something is not just different but peculiarly or disturbingly so.
Usage
怪异 is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to describe people's behavior, appearances, atmospheres, or events that strike observers as abnormal or eerie. It's somewhat formal compared to casual alternatives like 奇怪. Often appears in descriptions of mysterious situations, supernatural contexts, or psychological assessments.
Examples
- 01他最近的行为很怪异，大家都有点担心。, .His recent behavior has been very strange, and everyone is a bit worried.
- 02那座老房子里有一种怪异的气氛，让人感到不安。, .There's a bizarre atmosphere in that old house that makes people feel uneasy.
Characters
Common collocations
- 怪异的行为strange behavior
- 怪异的气氛bizarre atmosphere
- 显得怪异to appear strange
- 怪异现象strange phenomenon
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters have ancient origins. 怪 combines the heart radical 心 with 圣, originally meaning something that disturbs the heart. 异 originally depicted a person with a distinctive mask or face, suggesting difference.